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Accelerated Type 1 Diabetes Induction in Mice by Adoptive Transfer of Diabetogenic CD4+ T Cells
Published on: May 6, 2013
Drug-induced insulin autoimmune syndrome
Yasuko Uchigata1, Yukimasa Hirata, Yasuhiko Iwamoto
1Diabetes Center, Tokyo Women's Medical University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan. uchigata@dmc.twmu.ac.jp
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Alpha-lipoic acid can cause insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS), a condition previously linked mainly to methimazole. Increased reports since 2003 warrant caution with this popular supplement.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS) is a rare disorder characterized by spontaneous hypoglycemia.
- Methimazole has been historically associated with IAS.
- Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is increasingly recognized as an alternative cause of IAS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the growing association between alpha-lipoic acid and insulin autoimmune syndrome.
- To raise awareness among healthcare professionals and the public regarding ALA-induced IAS.
- To emphasize the need for caution when using ALA supplements.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of reported cases of IAS.
- Analysis of the temporal relationship between ALA use and IAS onset.
- Comparison of IAS cases associated with ALA versus methimazole.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in reported cases of ALA-induced IAS since 2003.
- ALA is emerging as a notable trigger for IAS, alongside methimazole.
- The popularity of ALA for weight loss and anti-aging may contribute to its increased association with IAS.
Conclusions:
- Alpha-lipoic acid is a potential cause of insulin autoimmune syndrome.
- Clinicians should consider ALA as a potential etiology in patients presenting with IAS symptoms.
- Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of ALA-induced IAS and to establish diagnostic and management guidelines.
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